In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a subtle caution to Israel regarding its military actions in Syria, emphasizing the importance of preserving Syria’s path toward stability. Through a post on his TruthSocial platform, Trump expressed satisfaction with current developments in Syria while urging Israel to maintain constructive dialogue with its neighbor.
The comments followed a recent Israeli military operation in southern Syria that resulted in substantial casualties. Syrian media reported that Israeli forces conducted a raid on the village of Beit Jinn, located approximately 50 kilometers from Damascus, killing at least 13 people. The operation triggered defensive actions from local villagers and required Israeli air support to extract ground troops, according to reports. The Israeli military confirmed six soldiers were wounded during the engagement.
This incident interrupted a period of relative calm in Israeli-Syrian relations that had persisted since the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government late last year. Israel has subsequently expanded its military presence, occupying a United Nations buffer zone and establishing positions on strategic high ground including Mount Hermon. Regional experts note Israel has simultaneously attempted to position itself as a protector of Syria’s Druze minority by providing arms to local leaders.
The geopolitical landscape has grown increasingly complex with the Trump administration hosting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House in November—a remarkable diplomatic gesture given Sharaa’s former leadership of a U.S.-designated terrorist organization. Sharaa’s participation in counter-Islamic State coalition talks during his visit potentially strengthens his position against the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which continue to guard IS prisoners with U.S. support.
Regional dynamics further complicate the situation, with Sharaa enjoying support from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. The Gulf states provide financial assistance to Syria’s government while Turkey engages in military training and contemplates a defense agreement with Damascus. The United States has attempted to mediate between Turkey and Israel to prevent clashes in Syrian territory.
Despite U.S.-mediated talks between Israel and Syria regarding border security arrangements, former U.S. Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford indicated negotiations have stalled due to Israel’s reluctance to withdraw from occupied territories. The fundamental question remains what incentives Syria would have for agreeing to a security arrangement that doesn’t address Israeli occupation concerns.